Blog of the Protestant Reformed Young People

The call to testify of our hope

With sanctification comes holy conversation, heavenly conversation. Because we have been made holy, we are set apart. We are citizens of God’s kingdom. We are only strangers and pilgrims here on this earth. What we speak of ought to be different than that of the world. Our conversation should match our citizenship. The Apostle Paul exhorted the church at Philippi to heavenly conversation. He encouraged them to follow his example (Philippians 3:17). “For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look [in hope] for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ” (Philippians 3:20). So also we are called in this life to speak of that which we long after, namely, our arrival at the pearly gates of the Holy City and the resurrection of our bodies.

This holy conversation must envelope the whole of our lives; not only at catechism and young people’s society, but also when we are with our friends, at work, at home, or at school. Our conversation reflects who we are and who we point to.

The Apostle in 1 Peter 3:15, 16 exhorts us to always be ready to freely talk about our faith. “But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear: Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ.” Our heavenly conversation is a witness to those around us. Our conversation must point to Christ.

We often see hope testifed when a saint in the Church passes from this life into eternal heavenly glory. The family is deeply saddened, especially if the death is unexpected. But then we hear them through their tears of sorrow testify of the hope and comfort they have, just as Job did in his deepest affliction. “For I know that my redeemer liveth, and that he shall stand at the latter day upon the earth: And though after my skin worms destroy this body, yet in my flesh shall I see God: Whom I shall see for myself, and mine eyes shall behold, and not another; though my reins be consumed within me” (Job 19:25-27). When a saint in your church or a family member of your friend dies, go to the funeral home. Comfort the family in their affliction and listen to them testify of the hope they have. Engage in heavenly conversation!